Thai PM urges action to curb violence against women and children

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra called on the public to actively support government initiatives aimed at curbing violence against children and women. This appeal is part of the government’s annual anti-violence campaign, coinciding with National Violence Elimination Against Children and Women Month.

Thailand designated November for this cause in 1999, aligning with the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, observed on November 25.

This year’s campaign, themed Act Now to End Violence against Women and Girls, is designed to prioritise the eradication of domestic abuse, foster empathy, and enhance public awareness of legal protections.

The Bangkok-born PM acknowledged that domestic violence, both physical and mental, is a growing concern. A lack of social intervention, she noted, perpetuates this violence, which should be viewed as a societal issue rather than just a personal one.

“Families are the most important unit of society, providing a protective shield and foundation for one’s strength and security.”

The 38 year old Thai premier urged individuals experiencing domestic violence to seek help by contacting the police or the Social Assistance Centre 1300 Hotline.

On the same day, the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (NHRC) released a statement in observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The NHRC urged the government to adhere to the protocols outlined in the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, advocating for domestic violence to become a national agenda item.

The NHRC emphasised the need to amend related laws to offer greater protection to victims of violent crimes. It also highlighted the issue of social identity complexities, which may increase vulnerability to violence among women with disabilities and those from diverse ethnic backgrounds.

The commission stressed the importance of safeguarding female activists who are at risk of harassment.

Statistics from the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) reveal that each year, at least 30,000 women file complaints of rights violations, physical assault, or emotional abuse, reported Bangkok Post.